Modifying behaviour on STI including HIV and oncogenic HPV: a draft protocol for a registry open to the registered subject, generating the concept of a 'STI passport'

Abstract:
*** Background *** Sexually transmissible infections (STI) include both HIV and oncogenic HPV with the risk of cervical and oral cancer. Sexual behaviour is the key to the problem but appears very difficult to influence. The STI tend to have different channels of management and don't seem to be managed in a manner that is sufficiently comprehensive. *** Methods *** Analytical consideration of the factors involved. Induction of a solution approach. *** Findings *** Design of a protocol of a STI registry that also covers HIV and oncogenic HPV. The registry would provide a natural environment for education, discussion of doctor and client, and exchange of information between consenting clients. The registry would be open to the registered subject. Registration can be seen as not just useful for the internal system of public health itself but also as a service to the external public. While the registry would protect privacy, people are free to disclose their status to potential partners. People can also ask their potential partner to disclose that status, when it becomes common knowledge that such registration can exist. This facility adds to the sense of control, which is an important psychological factor for behaviour. Provision of this natural environment of information and control fosters the habit of safe sexual conduct. The registered status of infection then can function as a passport that guards the flows between the infected and the non- infected. Capacities, barriers, sticks and carrots determine the effectiveness and efficiency of the scheme. *** Interpretation *** The protocol offers promising avenues for both research by the academia and advance experimentation in communities.